Neco Williams is eager for more game time following the teenager’s sustained period in Liverpool’s FA Cup campaign.

LONDON, ENGLAND – MARCH 03: (THE SUN OUT, THE SUN ON SUNDAY OUT) Pedro of Chelsea competing with Neco Williams of Liverpool during the FA Cup Fifth Round match between Chelsea FC and Liverpool FC at Stamford Bridge on March 03, 2020 in London, England. (Photo by John Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)

The 18-year-old right-back played every minute of in the world’s oldest cup competition this season prior to Jurgen Klopp’s fifth-round exit at the hands of Frank Lampard’s Chelsea.

Tuesday’s 2-0 defeat at Stamford Bridge ended the Reds’ bid for Wembley glory as goals in either half by Willian and Ross Barkley proved too decisive even for Klopp’s ‘mentality monsters’ to overturn.

The German manager was particularly impressed with Williams’ performance in the capital after the boss labeled the Welsh youngster as ‘super’ which has urged the academy graduate to force his way into Klopp’s plans for the remainder of the season.

Having clocked up five senior appearances this season, Williams explained how his time in the senior XI has aided his development.

Williams told Liverpoolfc.com: “I’ve played against top, top players and that’s the only way you are going to learn – the better players and the better opponents you play against are going to improve you as a player.

“I think that’s what’s happening to me so hopefully I’ll continue to get more chances, keep improving and get more chances to impress the boss. I’ve just got to keep working hard in training, keep giving 100 per cent and hopefully, the boss may choose me.

“I’m just grateful for every game I play. The more games I play the more confident I’m going to get. I’m just thankful for the boss choosing me and trusting me.”

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Williams has given Klopp a welcomed selection conundrum from now until the end of the campaign with the youngster proving a more than adept back-up to Ballon d’Or nominee Trent Alexander-Arnold.

If Liverpool are to overturn their Champions League last-16 clash against Atletico Madrid next week then this could allow Klopp to rotate between Williams and Alexander-Arnold in the English top-flight with the Premier League title all but wrapped up in Liverpool’s favour.

Williams has showcased he has the same unwavering desire to get forward and deliver crosses into the box which is a fundamental trait of Klopp’s idealised full-backs.

At such a young age, and already vital experience under his belt, there is no doubt that Williams has a big future in the professional game ahead of him.

Stroud born sports journalist from the south. Has covered the Reds home and away from the press-box and has had work published for the Liverpool ECHO.
Still playing the beautiful game in England’s ninth tier who compares himself to a less good version of Joel Matip. Madrid 19 still remains the best night of his life.